Where can I get hyperbaric oxygen therapy in Baltimore?

Baltimore has two world-class academic medical systems with active hyperbaric programs: Johns Hopkins Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical System. Both run major wound care departments that include HBOT for qualifying patients. Use the UHMS provider directory to find currently accredited facilities.

Does Medicare cover HBOT in Baltimore?

Medicare covers hyperbaric oxygen therapy for 14 FDA-approved conditions at any Medicare-participating facility. Baltimore's major academic medical centers participate in Medicare. After your deductible, Medicare typically pays 80% of the approved outpatient rate. Rates change annually — confirm current amounts with your facility's billing team.

Is Baltimore a good place to get HBOT for complex or unusual cases?

Yes. Johns Hopkins Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical System are both top-tier academic medical centers with deep specialist support. Complex cases — including unusual infections, complicated radiation injuries, and difficult diabetic wounds — are well suited to Baltimore's academic programs.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Baltimore, MD

Baltimore has two of the most respected academic medical systems in the world. Johns Hopkins Medicine and the University of Maryland Medical System both operate active hyperbaric oxygen therapy programs, giving Baltimore patients access to clinical expertise that most cities can’t match.

Finding HBOT Providers in Baltimore

Johns Hopkins Hospital, ranked among the best hospitals in the world for decades, runs wound care programs through its departments of plastic surgery, vascular surgery, and infectious disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center, affiliated with the University of Maryland School of Medicine, similarly runs a major wound care and hyperbaric program.

Both systems draw patients from across the mid-Atlantic region. If you’re in Baltimore for a complex wound, radiation injury, or unusual hyperbaric indication, you’re in the right place.

Access typically starts with a physician referral. Your primary care doctor, podiatrist, oncologist, or specialist can initiate a wound care consultation. Self-referral may be possible at some programs — call the wound care department directly to ask.

To find currently accredited hyperbaric facilities in Baltimore, use the UHMS provider directory. Before your first visit, read our guide to choosing an HBOT clinic.

Insurance and Medicare Coverage in Baltimore

Medicare Part B covers HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions at outpatient Medicare-participating facilities. Both Hopkins and University of Maryland Medical System facilities participate in Medicare. After your annual deductible, Medicare typically covers 80% of the approved rate. Reimbursement rates change annually — always confirm current figures with your facility’s billing team.

Maryland Medicaid (HealthChoice) may cover HBOT for qualifying conditions. Prior authorization is standard. Contact Maryland Medicaid or the hospital’s financial counselors before starting treatment.

Major commercial insurers in Maryland — CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and others — generally follow Medicare’s approved indications for HBOT. Written prior authorization is required before starting treatment. Off-label HBOT is not covered.

Investigational HBOT paid out of pocket runs $200 to $450 per session in the Baltimore area. See our insurance guide and cost guide for full details.

What to Expect at Your First Session

Baltimore’s academic programs run HBOT in formal clinical wound care settings. Your first appointment is an evaluation — the team will review your complete medical history, examine your wound or affected area, and confirm that hyperbaric oxygen therapy is appropriate. Bring a complete medication list.

Treatment sessions run 90 to 120 minutes. You’ll breathe pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber at two to three times normal atmospheric pressure. Mild ear pressure during pressurization is normal and usually easy to manage. Clinical staff are present throughout.

Wound care courses typically run 20 to 40 sessions. Baltimore’s academic centers monitor progress closely and adjust protocols based on response.

Read our first session guide for a step-by-step walkthrough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I go to Johns Hopkins or University of Maryland for HBOT? Both are excellent. The right choice often comes down to which system your referring physician is affiliated with, which is closer to your home, and which accepts your insurance. For most FDA-approved indications, both programs offer equivalent quality of care.

Does Baltimore have HBOT for decompression sickness from diving? Decompression sickness is an FDA-approved indication for HBOT and a medical emergency. The Divers Alert Network (DAN) emergency line is 1-919-684-9111. Baltimore’s academic centers are equipped to treat decompression illness. Emergency cases should go directly to the emergency department.

Can I get HBOT in Baltimore for radiation damage from prostate or cervical cancer treatment? Radiation-induced tissue damage — including radiation cystitis, proctitis, and osteoradionecrosis — is an FDA-approved indication for HBOT. Baltimore’s academic programs are well positioned to treat these cases, particularly given their oncology infrastructure. Ask your radiation oncologist for a wound care referral.

See more providers in Maryland: /providers/maryland/

Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before pursuing any medical treatment.